Fluoxetine - Lovan, Zactin
What is it?
Fluoxetine is a medication used to treat anxiety, fear-based behaviours, compulsive disorders, and mood-related behaviour problems. It belongs to a group of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood, anxiety and emotional responses. It helps to improve learning and form new behaviour patterns.
Why is it used?
Fluoxetine is commonly used for chronic anxiety disorders, separation anxiety, fear aggression, noise sensitivities, compulsive behaviours, and generalised anxiety. It is often used as a long-term medication and is most effective when combined with behaviour modification.
How is it used?
Fluoxetine is given once daily. It takes time to build up in the body and brain, and improvements are usually seen after 4–8 weeks. It should not be stopped suddenly and must be tapered gradually under veterinary guidance.
How is it given?
Fluoxetine is available as a capsule, tablet, or compounded liquid. It is usually well accepted and can be given with or without food. It can taste bitter to some pets.
What are the side effects?
Some pets may experience mild side effects when starting fluoxetine, including reduced appetite, mild gastrointestinal upset, or temporary lethargy. These effects often resolve within the first few weeks. Behavioural improvement is gradual rather than immediate.
Other rare effects include vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, panting, irritability, paradoxical increase in anxiety, noise sensitivity, increased drinking due to dry mouth and light sensitivity. Neurological signs such as trembling and shaking may be seen at higher doses.
If any of the above signs occur, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Can I use this medication with other supplements or medicines?
Fluoxetine can be safely combined with many supplements and other medications, but it should not be combined with certain drugs without veterinary advice. Always discuss any other products your pet is receiving.
Where do I get it?
Fluoxetine is a human medication available from a pharmacy with a prescription. Some veterinary clinics also carry it.
Off label use
In Australia, there are very few registered for treating behaviour problems - ie medications that are designed specifically for pets. Instead, we tend to use human medicines that have great evidence for treating behaviour problems. This means many of the medications we use are considered ‘off label’. These medications still have excellent evidence for their use, and lots of data about their effects and side effects, however it is essential that you feel well informed about their off label use. Please read all the information thoroughly to ensure you feel well informed about the risks and benefits of using this medication.